Thursday 2 July 2009

Mull Sea Eagle Chicks

First image of Mull’s Sea Eagle chicks (see Ileach Flickr Photostream)


On behalf of Forestry Commission Scotland, RSPB Scotland, Mull & Iona Community Trust, Scottish Natural Heritage and Strathclyde Police

The first image of Mull’s famous sea eagle chicks has been taken by Forestry Commission Scotland rangers during the birds’ ringing.

Both chicks, which are the current stars of the Mull eagle watch at Loch Frisa, are ten weeks old and are a popular attraction for visitors viewing them from the hide.

The eager parent birds named Frisa (aged 17 year old) and Skye (15 years old) returned to feed the chicks straight after the ringing.

Environment Minister, Roseanna Cunningham said:

“Sea Eagles are magnificent birds of prey and once you’ve seen one you’ll never forget their size – they are immense. It’s very good news that the chicks are thriving and the Eagle Watch hide has become such an important attraction for tourists.”

Mull Eagle Watch attracts some 5,000 visitors a year to the hide with all income received going to the Mull & Iona Community Trust to distribute to local good causes on the islands and to assist in the creation of a seasonal ranger post.

Last year over £10,000 was received from visitors to the hide. Sea eagles on Mull bring in some £2 million a year to the local economy by people visiting the island to see them.

Stuart Maidment of Forestry Commission Scotland said:

“The two chicks look fit and healthy and will be in the nest for another few weeks. Once they fledge, visitors to the hide will be able to watch them take their first, tentative flights across the loch and we expect them to stay in the area well into the autumn.”

Visitors to Mull can book onto special ranger-led visits to the purpose-built hide at Loch Frisa. They should contact local Tourist Information Offices on the island for the latest details.

Dave Sexton, RSPB Scotland Mull Officer:

"It’s great that the chicks are continuing to do so well. Everyone is on tenterhooks at the moment as the time approaches for the chicks to fledge, so it would be good to have lots of extra eyes at the hide to see where they go when they leave the nest. It’s an anxious time for both the parent birds and everyone involved in the project."

Colin MacFarlane, Scottish Natural Heritage area officer said:

"The number of people visiting the hide this year looks set to surpass that of last year, with some 3200 people already passing through the hide before the start of the summer holidays. The money raised from the entrance fees goes towards the employment of a ranger, the purchase of new equipment, and importantly towards the Mull Sea Eagle Community Fund which supports various local community projects on the island.

"July and August are some the best months to view the eagles at the hide and we look forward to seeing many more visitors over the next few months."

To follow the movements of last year’s chicks from Loch Frisa which were satellite tagged visit www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/tracking/mulleagles. To book a visit to the hide between now and mid July call 01688 302 038.

Mull Eagle Watch is a unique sea eagle protection and public viewing partnership involving Forestry Commission Scotland, RSPB Scotland, Mull & Iona Community Trust, Scottish Natural Heritage and Strathclyde police. Funding for the satellite tags and the hide was received from SNH, FCS and the BBC Wildlife Fund.

The famous sea eagle family is to feature in a September edition of the BBC’s flagship children’s TV programme ‘Blue Peter’.

Wednesday 1 July 2009

NFUS BACK IN BRUSSELS ON SHEEP IDENTIFICATION RULES

NFU Scotland has been back in Europe this week to fight damaging EU proposals on sheep electronic identification and movement recording which could decimate the Scottish sheep flock if they are implemented in their current form.

The Union attended a meeting between Copa-Cogeca – the umbrella organisation for farming unions and co-operatives – and Commission officials to discuss regulation 21/2004 due to come into force from the end of this year. In its current form, this regulation will make it obligatory for all Scottish sheep keepers to electronically tag their sheep and keep a record of each animal’s individual identity every time they move. That would bring an unacceptable level of cost and bureaucracy for no real benefit and the Union has pledged to fight these proposals tooth and nail.

The Union has also written the Commissioner in charge of proposals. The letter to Health Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou, outlined the impact that the proposals would have in Scotland and the compromises required if the regulation is to have any chance of being adopted in Scotland. The letter was copied to key industry stakeholders and politicians.

NFU Scotland, along with NSA Scotland, are to hold meetings around the country in the coming weeks to discuss with sheep keepers the way forward.

NFU Scotland Vice-President Nigel Miller, who was in Brussels for the Copa meeting, said:

“Commission officials received a blunt message from Europe’s farmers and co-operatives that the damaging Regulation 21/2004 should not be foisted onto the sheep sector and that adoption of this regulation should be voluntary rather than obligatory for member states. Alongside Scotland and the rest of the UK, representatives from Poland, the Netherlands, Finland, Czech Republic and Germany all lined up to criticise proposals in the short time we spent with the Commission staff. We hope they relay the messages back to Commissioner Vassiliou.

“Following up our request for a face-to-face meeting, we have written to the Commissioner this week to highlight the significant changes and compromises that would need to be worked into the annexes of the Regulation if it is to have any chance of being adopted in Scotland. Amongst these, we have suggested that sheep should only require electronic tagging when they leave the holding of birth as a common sense approach that would help mitigate the majority of the cost and hassle associated with the proposals.

“A further proposal on the use of critical control points such as markets and abattoirs to electronically record movements is also up for consideration at the Standing Committee for Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH) today (July 1) and we await the outcome of that debate with interest.

“We know we have the full backing of Scottish sheep farmers in pursuing this issue. Along with NSA Scotland, we plan to hold meetings around the country in the coming weeks to discuss the way forward and, if necessary, prepare the ground for public protest.”

New Creamery for Campbeltown

NFU Scotland has heralded the announcement of a brand new creamery for Campbeltown in Kintyre as a welcome shot in the arm for the Scottish dairy sector.

The creamery, to be built on a new site by farmer co-operative First Milk, will replace the co-op’s existing cheese plant in the town and will guarantee a long-term future for the 42 dairy farms in the area as well as numerous local jobs.

Local dairy farmer and former Kintyre NFUS branch chairman Sandy Pirie said:

“This is a great day for the future of dairy farming in the Kintyre peninsula. This area has an outstanding reputation for producing quality milk and quality cheese but for that to continue, serious investment in a new creamery was needed.

“Discussion on the creamery have been going on for some time. Now that the announcement has been made, it sends out a strong message to those dairy farmers supplying the plant that First Milk are committed to the future of cheese production in the area. With a bigger and better creamery producing a high value cheese, this could be the stimulus needed to boost milk production in Kintyre.”

NFU Scotland Vice-President, Allan Bowie added:

“The Scotland Food and Drink policy, launched by Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead at the Highland Show last week, is off to a flying start with a landmark announcement that boosts farming, food production and the local economy in a vulnerable part of the country.

“The Scottish Government and First Milk, backed by significant funds from both, have delivered a much-needed shot in the arm for dairy farmers both regionally and nationally. Confidence levels amongst milk producers are in need of a boost and this significant investment in modern plant to produce an award-winning product maps out the route to reinvigorating the dairy sector across Scotland.

“Local farmers supplying their milk into a local creamery to produce a world-renowned cheese is a superb success story that all parts of the supply chain – farmers, First Milk and its retailer customers - can take pride in. Just as important is the fact that people around the world love and value Mull of Kintyre cheese and that future supplies are now guaranteed.”

Tuesday 30 June 2009

Colonsay trying to recruit new GP to The Best Job in Britain"

IT comes with a newly renovated house which enjoys stunning views of the Paps of Jura -

and it is just a short stroll across the garden to "the office."

And with a salary of around £100,000 a year the resident doctor's post on the isle of Colonsay

- population 100 - is surely one of the best GP jobs in Britain.

Dr John Currie, who has held the post for ten years, confirmed yesterday (Thursday) that

he is quitting the job, to be nearer family on the mainland, opening the floodgate for applicants.

Situated on a spectacularly beautiful Hebridean holiday island, which is blessed with an array of white

sand beaches, the Colonsay post is expected to attract even more interest than the part-time GP

vacancy at Applecross attracted earlier this year. On that occasion, the many applicants even included

an American doctor who was so keen that he was prepared to commute 5,000 miles to work.

There are no such commuter problems on Colonsay as the surgery is in the doctor's garden.

Dr Currie, 58, said: "It is only a 10 second walk to the surgery and they have spent a fortune on the house,

it's a lovely, big, friendly, homely, house and it has absolutely stunning views overlooking the Paps of Jura.

"I will miss the place, the last ten years have given me a memorable experience."

Dr Currie, who is hoping to buy a bed and breakfast business and do some locum work on the Scottish

mainland, added: "It is time to move on after ten years. I will be 35 years' qualified this summer and I want to

be closer to my family and friends. I have another grandchild, Will, who was born on May 11 and I have family

in Edinburgh."

Argyll and Bute Councillor Robin Currie, (CORRECT) who represents Colonsay, said: "Colonsay is an ideal

holiday destination for many people, but it's also a very beautiful island to stay all year round. It's like staying in

a paradise holiday island 365 days a year, what more could you ask for?"

He added: "Colonsay is the ideal spot for a doctor with a young family. It has got a good school and it's a

very safe environment."

The island, which has a population of just over 100 permanent residents, has been trying to boost its ageing

population for some time, but the main stumbling block is the lack of housing and good jobs on the island. But

there is no such problem for the resident doctor.

Angus MacPhee, Chairman of Colonsay Community Council, said: "The four bedroomed doctor's house, which

has just been renovated, goes with the job and it has views to die for - stunning views towards the Sound of Islay.

"The surgery is in the garden and the doctor even has a big generator so that, if there is a power cut, as there

sometimes is in the Hebrides, his place is always lit up like a Christmas tree."

"We hope that good doctors will be queueing up to come here, this is an ideal opportunity for a young doctor,

with a family, although single applicants are welcome too."

Getting the right person for the job is essential as the doctor, who is on standby round the clock, is literally a lifeline

for those who live on the island, which is a two hour and 20 minute ferry ride from Oban.

Dr Currie said that the GP role of Colonsay was crucial to the island community, but added that it did not come without its

challenges. He said: "Colonsay has an ageing population and with age come problems, a doctor is definitely needed here."

A spokesman for NHS Highland said: "We are making plans to recruit a replacement as soon as we can."

Moira Kerr

ANN AN CÒI5 (IN FIVE) - BBC ALBA

ANN AN CÒI5 (IN FIVE)
Thursday 9 July at 6.50pm on BBC ALBA

A new series of 10, five minute programmes presented by young Gaelic speakers aged 10 to 13 is coming to your screens on BBC ALBA.

Produced by independent company Sealladh, set up by Morag Stewart and Chris Young of Young Films in 2008, the young Gaelic presenters, with the help of the Sealladh team, have scripted, presented and conducted interviews for each of the ten programmes in the new series ‘Ann an Còi5’, meaning ‘In Five’.

The series allows youngsters to tell the story of something which is very special to them, whether it be a place, pastime or person.

Ann an Còi5 has given emerging talent both behind and in front of the camera the opportunity to produce and broadcast their creative material. The stories have been brought to life by a production team which included young talent working in new challenging roles assisted and mentored throughout the production process.

The first in the series will look at Millie Ross who is 13, a pupil of Inverness Royal Academy who lives in Lentran, between Beauly and Inverness.

Millie is a member of a singing group called ‘Canntaireachd’ and has been singing since she was very young, winning a Mod gold medal for singing when she was only nine. Millie was delighted to join Canntaireachd as she loves to sing, especially in Gaelic. She was also happy to be given the opportunity to help create new material.

The Canntaireachd singers are a group of about 20 pupils (1st – 6th year) who meet every Tuesday in North Kessock Hall in the Black Isle. They now attend several secondary schools in the area but all attended the same Gaelic Medium Primary School, Central School in Inverness. The group was established by well-known Gaelic singer, Eilidh MacKenzie who lives in the Black Isle.

As Canntaireachd, Millie and her friends are in great demand at various concerts and special events. They have performed for the Blas Festival and at showcase events in Eden Court Theatre.

The first ‘Ann an Còi5’ programme with Millie Ross includes interviews with Eilidh MacKenzie and with another Canntaireachd group member, Christina Ross from Inverness, as well as a performance of a song composed by the group about the Brathan Seer, ‘Òran Choinnich Odhair’.

‘Ann an Còi5’ will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Thursday 9 July at 6.50pm and is available on Sky channel 168 & Freesat channel 110.

BBC ALBA - CROIT (CROFT) – A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF LOCAL SCOTTISH CROFTERS

CROIT (CROFT) – A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF LOCAL SCOTTISH CROFTERS
Wednesday 8 July at 8.30pm on BBC ALBA

A series titled Croit (Croft), charting a year in the agricultural lives of five Scottish crofters, will be broadcast on BBC ALBA. This series reflects the activities, aspirations and risks that form the calendar of life on five crofts in the Western Highlands of Scotland.

Croit (Croft), produced by MacTV, is a unique portrait of crofting at the beginning of the 21st Century from a diversity of locations. The calendar routine is recorded, from the springtime ploughing, planting and lambing, through the summer shearing and agricultural shows, to the autumn livestock sales and winter tupping.

Next week’s programme on Wednesday 8 July, features Anna Fraser from Callanish on the west side of the Isle of Lewis, who is the youngest crofter on the series. Anna attends regularly to her three cows and is involved in various schemes designed to improve the quality and profitability of her crofting land.

Anna is also a full-time Gaelic student at the local Lews Castle College, juggling her studies with her crofting responsibilities, as well as being a director of a local community group working to acquire and redevelop a local estate for crofting purposes.

It's an exciting time for Anna, as her community group gets closer to brokering a deal to acquire a local estate, and she discusses balancing her responsibilities as a crofter with her life as a student.

This programme will also follow Donald Norman MacDonald who runs Clachan Farm on the Isle of North Uist. Donald Norman is also employed at the local abattoir, is a gamekeeper, gravedigger and fencing contractor. Donald Norman talks about the problems he faces because of high numbers of wild geese and unveils his own invention, which he hopes will deter the birds from spoiling his crops.

On the Isle of Skye, Donald and Calina MacDonald who live in Eynort, operate a diverse crofting system, managing both a sizeable herd of suckler cows and a large flock of sheep. They are also enthusiastic horticulturists and grow a huge range of plants and vegetables on their croft land and in the programme we see them set up a stall at a local produce market.

Crofters Derek and Cathy MacLennan from Toscaig near Applecross run perhaps the least traditional croft featured in the series. Derek and his family do not eat meat and therefore, concentrate on working their land to grow a vast selection of herbs and vegetables, used by the family themselves as well as sold locally to neighbouring hotels and caterers. The family is also involved in various community projects and during the series, acquire a clutch of chickens, a decision that, at first, leads to disaster. Derek also patrols an area he and the local community are regenerating in partnership with the Forestry Commission.

The story of Croit (Croft) is one of great extremes, from the fear and apprehension experienced at times of crisis, to the highs of success on agricultural show and livestock sale days. This series captures the spirit and joy that is associated with the outdoors, cultivation and animals, while at the same time revealing the exhaustion, hard work and exertion invested in such a lifestyle. Croit (Croft) is an uplifting and positive portrait of a way of life that is now all too often dismissed as failing and fading.

Croit (Croft) will be broadcast on BBC ALBA on Wednesday 8 July at 20:30 and is available on Sky channel 168 & Freesat channel 110.

Monday 29 June 2009

Scottish Water tell us what an excellent service they provide

The following is a press release from Scottish Water




Record year for delivering benefits for our customers

Scottish Water’s annual report 2008/09

Scottish Water is reporting a record year of delivering benefits for our customers as we continue to serve Scotland and deliver the improvements needed in the water industry.

In 2008/09 Scottish Water delivered £687 million of capital investment, one of the biggest investment programmes in the UK, reduced leakage by 122 million litres a day and made major improvements to customer service.

This has resulted in the benefits of clearer, fresher drinking water for more than a million people, a greener environment and further progress in our aim to provide one of the best value services to our customers.

The average charge to household customers is £324 for water and waste water services – lower than seven of the companies south of the border.

Richard Ackroyd, chief executive of Scottish Water, said: “This was my first full year at the helm of the fastest improving water company in the UK. I am pleased to be able to report even more progress. There is still much work to be done. I want Scottish Water to be an industry leader, providing the best service to all our customers across Scotland.

“I am pleased to report that we have outperformed all of our key targets. These include leakage; customer service as measured by OPA; and delivery of capital investment outputs. We have also provided more strategic water and waste water capacity to ensure development and growth.

“I want to pay tribute to everyone who works at Scottish Water and who have played such an important part in our achievements so far. There are many challenges ahead, not least the economic situation and climate change and we cannot afford to be complacent. We are building a business which Scotland can be proud of.”

Ronnie Mercer, chair of Scottish Water said: “We are a high performing business with a high performing management and staff who are beating the challenging targets set by the independent economic regulator while delivering the investment that Scotland needs.

“Scottish Water is a business with a billion pound turnover, employing a core 3, 600 staff and supporting more than 5,000 through the investment programme. We are one of Scotland’s biggest businesses and providing a vital service which also supports the economy of Scotland.”


Highlights of 2008/09

Highest level of customer satisfaction. Our Customer Overall Performance Assessment has improved by 53% in the period 2006-2009. In 2008/09 we outperformed our target by 13%.
Scottish Water is the fastest improving water utility in the UK.
On average, over the year, leakage has been reduced by 122 million litres of water a day.
In 2008/09 our overall satisfaction figure of 80% represents an all time high in customers’ satisfaction.
Record investment across Scotland is helping improve the quality of life for communities.
In 2008/09 1.5 million of our customers are enjoying clearer, fresher drinking water straight from their taps.
On average each Scottish household pays £324 a year for water and waste water services, still less than £1 a day.


The benefits to customers

The key successes in 2008/09 can be attributed to improvements in a wide range of the 12 OPA (overall performance assessment) Indicators agreed with our regulators. These include:

We have improved the pressure to 2900 more properties. Less than 0.11% of all properties in Scotland are now affected by low pressure.
We have reduced leakage by 122 million litres per day beating the target agreed with our regulator.
We have removed the risk of internal flooding to 180 properties by putting in place permanent solutions.
100% of all written complaints are now replied to within 10 days.
We have made an improvement in answering calls within 30 seconds to 97.41%.
We continue to experience no hosepipe restrictions by maintaining water supplies at all times.
We have scored maximum points for sludge disposal by ensuring that all our sludge is treated according to regulations.
Water Quality performance has been maintained at the highest quality it has ever been in Scotland with 99.81% compliance with stringent regulatory standards.


For a copy of the annual report please go to HYPERLINK "http://www.scottishwater.co.uk" www.scottishwater.co.uk

Bòrd na Gàidhlig air slighe gu structair ùr

Bòrd na Gàidhlig air slighe gu structair ùr


Tha Bòrd na Gàidhlig, a’ phrìomh bhuidheann leasachaidh poblach le uallach airson na Gàidhlig air buidheann-taice stiùiridh àrd-ìre agus eadar-amaile (BSTAE) fhastadh a chuideachadh le teachd-a-mach deisealachadh cur-an-gnìomh Plana Nàiseanta na Gàidhlig. Bidh a’ bhuidheann cuideachd a’ dèiligeadh ri atharraichean a tha rin cur an-sàs ann an structair agus modhan-obrach a’ Bhùird.

Dhearbh am Bòrd cuideachd ged nach deach aca air Ceannard ùr fhasdadh nauir a chaidh sin a shireadh bho chionn ghoirid, gun tèid an dreuchd sin a lìonadh, a-measg dhreuchdan ùra eile, ’nuair a bhios cruth ùr air structair a’ Bhùird.

Tha triùir air a’ bhuidhinn taice eadar-amail – Dòmhnall Màrtainn a tha a’ fuireach ann an Steòrnabhagh, Jo NicDhòmhnaill a tha a’ fuireach ann an Glaschu agus Ùisdean MacIllInnein a tha a’ fuireach ann an Inbhirkip ann an Inbhir Chluaidh.

Thuirt Cathraiche a’ Bhùird Art MacCarmaig: “Bidh an triùir seo ag obair mar thaic agus mar ghoireas stòrais aig àrd-ìre anns a’ gheàrr-ùine a tha romhainn, fhad ’sa tha an structair aig a’ Bhòrd ag atharrachadh agus mar a tha sinn a’ fasdadh luchd-obrach ùra a bhios ’gar toirt air adhart anns an ùine-fhada. Tha mi a’ dol a dhèanamh cinnteach gu bheil obair a’ Bhùird a leantainn gu h-èifeachdach an uair a tha sin a’ tachairt agus gum bi piseach a’ sìor thighinn air cùisean. Bu chòir astar agus èifeachdas na buidhne thoirt air adhart ceum air cheum agus feumaidh an luchd-obrach a th’againn taic a tha iomchaidh mar a tha sin a’ tachairt. Tha sinn air sgioba a thoirt còmhla a tha fìor eòlach ann an diofar raointean obrach agus tha mi deimhinne gun toir iad deagh thaic dhan Bhòrd agus gun daingnich iad gach leasachadh a tha a dhìth, le piseach air modhan-obrach is eile a chaidh a bhunaiteachadh air a’ bhliadhna a chaidh seachad.

Tha dùil gum bi a’ bhuidheann-stiùiridh taice an-sàs airson suas gu 9 mìosan agus aig deireadh na h-ùine sin gum bi an structair ùr againn agus gum bi sinn air Bòrd na Gàidhlig a neartachadh ann an dòigh freagarrach a bheir leasachadh na Gàidhlig air adhart. Tha e cudromach gu bheil structairean ceart againn agus gu leòr de luchd-obrach le sgilean iomchaidh ach an tèid againn air rùintean coimhearsnachd na Gàidhlig a choileanadh agus cuideachd amasan Riaghaltais na h-Alba, a th’air an cur romhainn gu soilleir.”

Thuirt Ministear na Gàidhlig MÌcheil Russell BPA: “Tha Bòrd na Gàidhlig air bun-stèidh làidir aig fìor chridhe na tha sinne a’ sùileachadh an Alba. Tha a’ chuideachd a tha seo eadar Jo, Dòmhnall agus Ùisdean a’ toirt beairteas neart is eòlais chun Bhùird. ’S ann air sgàth sin a tha mi cho toilichte gu bheil buidheann dhen leithid air aontachadh cuideachadh le ath-dhealbh is ath-chruthachadh a’ Bhùird aig àm a tha air leth cudromach. Tha fiughar agam ri bhith coinneachadh riutha agus a bhith ag obair còmhla riutha fhèin is Art MacCarmaig anns na mìosan romhainn.”


BUinidh Dòmhnall Màrtainn do na Hearadh agus tha e a-nis a’ fuireach ann an Leòdhas. Tha e ’na Chathraiche air Ùghdarras a’ Chlò Mhòir agus tha e na Leas-Mhorair Ionaid a’ Chrùin anns na h-Eileanan Siar. Tha e cuideachd anns a’ chathair air a’ bhuidhinn foillseachaidh Gàidhlig Acair, agus na bhall de bhuidheann leasachaidh Plana Gàidhlig OGE. Bha e roimhe seo na Àrd-Oifigear air Comunn na Gàidhlig agus ’na Iar-Cheannard air Roinn Rianachd Chomhairle nan Eilean Siar. Tha e an-dràsta ’na bhall de Bhòrd Stiùiridh MG Alba agus bha e roimhe seo ’na bhall de dh’Urrasairean Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, le eòlas farsaing cuideachd air a bhith ag obair do bhuidhnean poblach eile a bharrachd air sin.
Boinidh Jo NicDhòmhnaill do dh’Eilean Leòdhais agus tha i an-diugh a’ fuireach ann an Glaschu. An dèidh bliadhnaichean a chur seachad ag obair ann an raointean farsainn de phrògraman a’ BhBC, tha Jo NicDhòmhnaill a-nis ag obair air a ceann fhèin do dhiofar bhuidhnean, ’nam measg am BBC. Mas do dh’fhàg i am BBC, bha i os cionn BBC Gàidhlig, le 120 luchd-obrach ag obair ann an trì meadhanan, a’ frithealadh seirbheisean reidio agus telebhisein, an dà chuid do BBC Alba agus do BBC2, agus an lìonraidh Gàidhlig bbcalba.co.uk. Bha i ’na ball dhen bhuidhinn MAGOG ann an 2002 a chomhairlich an Riaghaltas aig an àm air ro-innleachdan airson leasachaidh na Gàidhlig. Tha i air a bhith anns a’ chathair air buidheann foillseachaidh Gàidhlig ag obair dhan Bhòrd agus tha i cuideachd na ball de dh’Urras Shomhairle.
Tha Ùisdean MacIllInnein à Caol a’ Ghearasdain, ach boinidh a chuideachd do na Hearadh. Tha e air a bhith an-sàs ann an obair leasachaidh Gàidhlig son iomadh bliadhna an dèidh trèanadh mar neach-teagasg agus a bhith ag obair dhan BhBC agus pàipearan Naidheachd. Tha e cuideachd air a bhith ag obair air pròiseactan stiùiridh mar eòlaiche agus tha e an dràsta na bhall de bhòrd-stiùiridh MG Alba. Bha e roimhe seo na Rùnaire air Comann Gàidhlig Inbhir Nis agus Urras Brosnachaidh na Gàidhlig agus tha mòran eòlach air tro chuid-obrach mar chraoladair agus neach-eachdraidh spòrs, agus gu sònraichte ann an saoghal na camanachd. Bha e cuideachd roimhe seo ag obair na Stiùiriche Choluadair aig CalMac fad sheachd bliadhna. Tha e cuideachd fhathast na bhall de dh’Urras Shomhairle.



Bòrd na Gàidhlig begins
restructuring process

Bòrd na Gàidhlig, the principal public body promoting and developing Gaelic, has appointed an interim senior support team (ISST) to increase its capacity to implement the National Plan for Gaelic and to supervise planned changes in its structure and operations.

The Bòrd has also confirmed that while the recent process for the recruitment of a Ceannard (Chief Executive) for Bòrd na Gàidhlig resulted in no appointment being confirmed, the process will be continued and the post will be filled, along with new positions, as part of the ongoing restructuring plans.

Confirming the appointment of Donald Martin from Stornoway, Jo MacDonald from Glasgow and Hugh Dan MacLennan from Inverkip, Bòrd Cathraiche (Chair) Arthur Cormack said: “The interim senior support team is being put in place to increase capacity and as supporting resources for the short term, while changes to the structure of the organisation will result in permanent appointments through an open recruitment programme in the longer term. I want to ensure that Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s delivery and effectiveness continue to improve and quicken pace and that the current staff are properly supported during the restructuring process. The team that the Bòrd has put in place is made up of very experienced individuals and I am confident that they will support the organisation and sustain continuous improvement in its operations and working practices already established in the past 12 months.

The team will be in place for up to 9 months. By the end of that period I would expect that the new structure will be in place and that we will have strengthened the organisation in order to take Gaelic development forward. It is important that we have the right structures and adequate personnel in place to fulfil the aspirations of the Gaelic community and the clear ambitions of the Scottish Government for the language.”

Minister for Gaelic Michael Russell MSP said: “A strong Bòrd na Gàidhlig is at the heart of our ambitions for Gaelic in Scotland. Collectively Hugh Dan, Donald and Jo bring a wealth of experience to the Bòrd. That is why I am pleased these talented individuals have agreed to steer the Bòrd and its staff through this important period of restructuring. I look forward to working with Arthur Cormack and the rest of his team in the months ahead.”



Donald Martin is a Gaelic speaker from Harris, living in Lewis. He is currently Chairman of the Harris Tweed Authority and has been Depute Lord Lieutenant of the Western Isles. He is also Chair of Gaelic publishers Acair and a member of the Project Board planning UHI’s Gaelic Plan. He is a former Chief Executive of the Gaelic development agency Comunn na Gàidhlig and depute Director of Administration with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, the Western Isles Council. He is also currently a Board member of the Gaelic television Channel MG Alba and has previously been a Trustee of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, with extensive experience of other public offices.
Jo Macdonald is a Gaelic speaker from the island of Lewis. During a career spent largely with the BBC she worked mainly in factual and education programming. Before leaving the BBC at the end of 2008 she was Managing Editor of BBC Gàidhlig, a tri-media department employing about 120 staff, whose output includes the national Gaelic radio service BBC Radio nan Gàidheal, a wide range of television programming for the new Gaelic channel BBC Alba and for BBC2, and the Gaelic website bbcalba.co.uk. She was a member of the MAGOG group whose 2002 report to Scottish ministers recommended the establishment of a body which would take a strategic approach to Gaelic Development activities. She currently does some freelance work for the BBC and has chaired Bòrd na Gàidhlig’s Publishing strategy planning group. She is a member of the Urras Shomhairle Gaelic Trust.
Hugh Dan MacLennan is a Gaelic speaker from Caol near Fort William with his family roots in Harris. He has extensive experience of working with Gaelic organisations and in project management as a consultant and is currently a Board member of the Gaelic television channel MG Alba. He is a former Secretary of the Gaelic Society of Inverness and Urras Brosnachaidh na Gàidhlig. He is a well known broadcaster, author and sports historian and was formerly Communications Director with the ferry company Caledonian MacBrayne. He is a member of the Urras Shomhairle Gaelic Trust.

MG ALBA Programme Highlights

BBC ALBA – WEEKLY PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

Week: 28

Date: Saturday, 11 July – Saturday, 18 July 2009


Title: BBC ALBA @ T in the Park

Two ninety minute programmes with a mix of highlights from the festival’s main stage as well as acoustic performances from the new BBC Three InTimate Stage, hosted by BBC ALBA presenters Calum MacAulay and Siobhan MacInnes.

Transmitted: Saturday 11th July 2009 & Sunday 12th July 2009
Time: 18:00


Title: Trusadh - Tadhal Phadraig/The Hibs Church

St Patrick's is a church with a difference. Hopeful of claiming Edinburgh's first Saint, the church that also founded Hibs FC has embarked on an unusual campaign to raise the £2m needed to restore the crumbling building.

Transmitted: Monday 13th July 2009
Time: 21:00


Title: Soillse - An Ros Seargte

The poignant story of a Colombian street girl who became a Hollywood star, only to be sucked back into her former life.

Transmitted: Wednesday 15th July 2009
Time: 21:00


Title: Gleanntan Ecuador

In 1984 Father Colin MacInnes, a priest from South Uist moved to Quito in Ecuador to work among the poor of the city. This programme explores the first years of his work there.

Transmitted: Thursday 16th July 2009
Time: 21:00


Title: Hebridean Celtic Music Festival

Highlights from the first two days of the Hebridean Celtic Music Festival featuring artists such as La Bottine Souriante, Sharon Shannon Big Band and Karen Matheson.

Transmitted: Saturday 18th July 2009
Time: 21:00

Women's Land Army - NFUS press release

FIRST MINISTER WELCOMES WOMEN’S LAND ARMY FUNDRAISING BID


Scotland’s First Minister, Alex Salmond, has welcomed the creation of a group, led by NFU Scotland, which aims to establish a permanent memorial to the work of the Women’s Land Army in Scotland.

The announcement was made at a reception, hosted by the Scottish Government at the Royal Highland Show, to which a number of former WLA members, or ‘land girls’ as they were often called, were invited.

The monument will recognise the WLA’s crucial role in supplying the UK with food and raw materials during World Wars I and II. A steering group, represented by NFU Scotland, NFU Mutual, the Scottish Farmer and the Scottish Women’s Rural Institutes (SWRI) will now begin to determine what form the memorial should take, where it should be sited, and to raise money to fund the project.

NFU Scotland’s President, Jim McLaren, whose mother was a member of the WLA said:

“I am very pleased to be involved in creating a fitting monument to the WLA, whose efforts have not been sufficiently recognised up to this point. I am encouraged to see that an enthusiastic group has now come forward to help make this happen and welcome the Scottish Government’s endorsement of the project.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity to meet some of the WLA’s former members and to hearing their ideas as to the most fitting form of memorial.

“To that end, if anyone would like to suggest or propose a suitable site or help with fundraising, they should get in touch with me, which can be done quite easily through NFU Scotland’s Head Office at Ingliston.”

First Minister, Alex Salmond said:

“Tomorrow sees the inaugural Armed Forces Day, where communities across the country will come together to recognise the tremendous service of military personnel, past and present.

“Civilians have often played important wartime roles too, not least the Women’s Land Army during two World Wars. I’m delighted to be able to meet some of the ‘land girls’ at this reception, which we’ve organised in recognition of their vital work.

“Though much has changed since the Second World War, it is only right that those who today live and work on the land or enjoy the fabulous produce showcased at the Royal Highland Show, recognise and remember the lasting contribution these women made.

“I welcome the initiative shown by NFU Scotland in bringing together a group to examine how a permanent memorial can be established as a fitting tribute to their important contribution to the war effort. I look forward to seeing how their proposals and fund-raising drive progress.”

Beachwatch 2009

MCS BEACHWATCH BIG WEEKEND 2009
Call to join the army of volunteers turning the tide on litter in Scotland!


The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) urgently needs volunteers to take part in the UK’s biggest beach litter survey and cleanup taking place over the weekend of 19th – 20th September 2009. MCS needs your help to tackle the problems of beach litter and to help make our Beachwatch Big Weekend event the biggest ever!

The tide of litter washing up on our shores is not just unpleasant to look at, it can harm and kill some of our best-loved marine wildlife. Over 170 species of marine wildlife including seabirds, turtles and whales have mistaken marine litter for food resulting in starvation, poisoning and fatal stomach blockages. Plastic packaging and discarded fishing nets also injure, entangle and drown some of Britain’s favourite marine animals, including seals and dolphins.

Anne Saunders, MCS Scottish Projects Officer says, “If you care about our amazing marine wildlife and are concerned about the growing tide of litter in the UK, this is your chance to make a difference. The information you collect will help us to tackle the sources of litter and campaign to reduce the most common items ending up on our beaches and killing wildlife.”

Our surveys have recorded a 110% increase in the amount of beach litter compared to 1994. The four main sources of litter found on UK beaches come from the public, fishing, sanitary waste (particularly cotton bud sticks) and shipping.

Over 5,000 volunteers took part in Beachwatch 2008, cleaning and surveying over 370 beaches and collecting over 385,000 pieces of litter on just one weekend. Our survey recorded an average of 2,195 items of litter per kilometre on UK beaches, that’s over two items for every metre of beach surveyed!

In Scotland, 52 beaches were cleaned by 860 volunteers, who surveyed 21.32 km of beach and collected a total of 55,041 pieces of litter. Scottish beaches had the highest density of both public litter and sewage-related debris of any country in the UK.
Thousands of volunteers take part in Beachwatch Big Weekend every year, ensuring that the event continues to be the biggest and most influential project in the fight against beach litter in the UK. Our Beachwatch Big Weekend provides a simple and effective way in which everyone can help tackle the relentless tide of rubbish on our beaches and at sea.

MCS Beachwatch results are vital in turning the tide on litter. They have helped us influence changes to laws on disposing of waste at sea, and resulted in investment in better sewage treatment at the coast. We are now calling for UK governments to develop an action plan to tackle marine litter, if you feel strongly about this issue please sign our petition at HYPERLINK "http://www.adoptabeach.org.uk" www.adoptabeach.org.uk

The data collected by MCS Beachwatch volunteers also contributes to a worldwide project, the International Coastal Cleanup, which takes place in over 80 countries worldwide.
MCS is extremely grateful to SeaFrance for funding the Beachwatch campaign.
Robin Wilkins, MD of SeaFrance says, “Along with members of SeaFrance staff and local volunteers, I have been involved in regular beach cleans and surveys at Kingsdown. It’s been shocking to see the levels of litter on the beach. The easy option is to just leave your litter behind rather than take it home with you, but the litter left behind impacts our coastline for generations. SeaFrance is absolutely committed through its support as lead sponsor of MCS Beachwatch to help combat this problem.”
Register online at: www.adoptabeach.org.uk or telephone the litter team on 01989 567807.
ENDS
Beachwatch 2009 Contacts:
Anne Saunders, MCS Scottish Projects Officer – Tel: 0131 226 2391 / 07894 566624
Emma Snowden, MCS Litter Projects Coordinator – Tel: 01989 567807/ 07793 118388
Sue Kinsey, MCS Pollution Programme Manager – Tel: 01989 567807
Rachel Bailey MCS Pollution team Assistant – Tel: 01989 567807
Beachwatch contact number for the public – Tel: 01989 567807
Richard Harrington, MCS Communications Manager – Tel: 01989 561585 / 07793 118384
General Marine Conservation Society switchboard – Tel: 01989 566017
beachwatch@mcsuk.org" beachwatch@mcsuk.org
Register online at: www.adoptabeach.org.uk
Websites: www.mcsuk.org
www.adoptabeach.org.uk
www.goodbeachguide.co.uk


The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the UK charity dedicated to the protection of our seas, shores and wildlife. MCS campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries, and protection of marine life. Through education, community involvement and collaboration, MCS raises awareness of the many threats that face our seas and promotes individual, industry and government action to protect the marine environment. MCS provides information and guidance on many aspects of marine conservation and produces the annual Good Beach Guide (www.goodbeachguide.co.uk), the Good Fish Guide and HYPERLINK "http://www.fishonline.org" www.fishonline.org on sustainable seafood, as well as promoting public participation in volunteer projects and surveys such as MCS Beachwatch, Adopt-a-Beach and Basking Shark Watch. HYPERLINK "http://www.mcsuk.org" www.mcsuk.org The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is celebrating 25 years of protecting our precious seas, shores and wildlife this year.

MCS Beachwatch is an annual UK-wide beach litter survey and clean up, organised by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) since 1993. Beachwatch is the flagship event of the Adopt-a-Beach project, which encourages local volunteers to survey marine litter every quarter. Volunteers remove all the litter from a measured area of their local beach, recording every item that they find. The data gathered from Beachwatch every September is published by MCS in the Beachwatch Report. This information is used at national and International levels to raise awareness of the impacts of marine litter, to promote measures to reduce litter at source and to campaign for marine litter legislation. The sixteenth Beachwatch litter survey and beach clean took place on the 20th and 21st September 2008. Beachwatch Big Weekend 2009 will take place on 19th and 20th September, for further information see HYPERLINK "http://www.adoptabeach.org.uk" www.adoptabeach.org.uk